Excursions

Bavikonda (20 km)
Situated Northeast of Visakhapatnam, Bavikonda is a famous Buddhist site. The Buddhist settlement comprises primarily two types of structures. One is the Stupas, Chityagrihas and congregation hall and platforms. The secular constructions are the viharas and kitchen cum store complexes towards the southeastern side of the complex. A piece of bone stored in an urn recovered here is believed to belong to the mortal remains of Buddha.

Thotlakonda (16 km)
This situated along the Vizag- Bhimli beach road, the place is famous for a number of stupas, chaityas, vihara, a congregation hall, rectangular halls and refractory belonging to the Hinayana school.

Sankaram (41 km)
3kms from Anakapally railway station on the banks of the river Sarada lies the small village of Sankaram. Deriving its name from the term sangrama meaning a monastery, the place is knownd for its votive stupas, brick-built structural edifices, rock-cut caves, early historic pottery and coins dating back to the early Christian era. In close proximity to Sankaram lies Bojjannakonda, where several images of Buddha carved in caves of the hill have been found. are noticed. Similarly, at Lingaalametta, a great number of rows of rock and monolithic stupas are spread all over the hill.

Simachalam (16 km)
One of the most exquisitely sculpted shrines of Andhra Pradesh, Simhachalam temple is situated among thickly wooded hills. The beautifully carved 16 pillared Natya Mantapa and the 96 pillared Kalyana Manatapa bear testimony to the architectural brilliance of the temple dating back to the 1th century AD. The idol of Shri Lakshmi Narasihma Swamy, the presiding deity of the temple, is covered in a thick layer of sandalwood paste.

Araku Valley (112 km)
One of the popular excursions from Visakhapatnam, Araku valley is a pleasant hill station set amidst exotic locale and makes for excellent gateway due to its cool and picturesque environs. The journey to the valley either through the Ghat Road or by train passing through several tunnels is an exhilarating experience. The main attractions in Araku are exotic landscapes, verdant valleys, tribal village, a Tribal habitat museum. You will enjoy the traditional folk dances including the famous tribal dance called “Dhimsa” here.

Tyda – Jungle Bells Nature Camp
Nestled in the densely forested hills of Eastern Ghats Tyda is a small Village located on the way to Araku from Visakhapatnam. People come here to have a brush with untouched nature. Jungle Bells nature camp, established by AP tourism, offers breathtaking views of the Eastern Ghats. Trekking, hiking and bird watching are the major attractions here. Staying in log huts amidst serene surroundings is a pleasant experience.

Pavuralakonda (24 km)
Located west of Bhimili, Pavuralakonda or the hill of pigeons is a
hillock where 16 rock cut cisterns for impounding rainwater have been
found.Anantagiri (88 km)
Situated on the way to Araku Valley, Anatagiri is an inviting spot with elegant beauty. Unending expanse of coffee plantations, several waterfalls, of which Tadimada waterfall is the most impressive, and a rivulet add charm to the place. Also considered a health resort, this beautiful valley in the Eastern Ghats attracts visitors in good numbers.

Borra Caves (90 km)
On the road to Araaku Valley, Borra Caves house million year old stalactite and stalagmite formations, presenting a breathtaking display of naturally sculpted splendor. Deep in the caves there is a Shiva lingam over which water drops from above, which is said to be the origin of the river Gosthani. The river flowing from these caves with natural roaring sounds is a beautiful sight to enjoy.

Annavaram (124km)
Annavaram is a sacred pilgrim centre on a hilltop known as Ratnagiri. Presiding deity is Laxmi Narasihma Swamy.

Kalingapatnam (143km)
The beautiful beach attracts visitors from the city.